How-to guides
Information, advice, and resources about a wide range of subjects
This section has lots of content related to community energy; the aim is for you to work through the guides in sections that are relevant to you. The areas covered are designed to help groups just starting out in community energy, as well as more experienced practitioners and sector stakeholders.
To get the most relevant how-to guides for you, please select which option best describes you or your organisation from the options below.
The case for community energy
The case for community energy: Understanding the added value of a community energy approach and why support for community energy is vital for the success of the UK’s transition to net zero. A guide created via the Energy Learning Network (ELN) by Saskya Huggins (2025).
Electricity generation
Solar PV As a mature renewable energy technology, well suited to community renewable energy projects, this is one of the most established areas of the community energy sector. Panels capture energy from the sun using photovoltaic cells. These cells do not need direct sunlight to work – they can still generate some electricity on a […]
Definition, impact and sector potential
Impact What makes it different from other forms of energy ownership and delivery, is that community energy is about maximising social and environmental benefits, rather than just solely focusing on maximising profit. We still trade electricity and heat, and provide other commercial energy services, but they are often a means to bring in income to […]
Community energy in the UK and around the world
Although England pioneered cooperatives, community energy isn’t just an English thing; it is happening all over the globe. There are a host of other organisations and networks you might wish to connect to and learn from across the UK and internationally. In the UK Outside the UK International development We also support the use of […]
Community engagement & diversity
By actively involving local communities, you can build trust and ensure the project meets the needs of everyone it serves. A core part of this is prioritising diversity by encouraging participation from a wide range of local residents and stakeholders, making sure your project is inclusive and truly representative of your community. Here are some […]
Choosing a structure & registering your organisation
Depending on what project and activities you wish to pursue and the funding you need to bring in, you may not always need to become a legal organisation or entity. If you do decide registering as a legal entity is the pathway for you, then there are a number of options for you to consider […]
Obtaining funding
As well as the specific resources below, CEE events and our national newsletter are great ways to keep updated on latest funding opportunities. Members (and non-member stakeholders) can sign up to our newsletters. You do not need to be a member of CEE to use these services, though you will get more features as a […]
Technologies & business models
Community energy is most commonly associated with generating electricity from renewable energy sources like rooftop solar PV, wind turbines, and hydropower. With the Clean Power 2030 Mission hoping to achieve 8GW of local and community ownership of generation, this is going to remain a big focus for the sector. But the sector is also growing […]
